Supreme Court Restores INEC's Authority for 2027 Elections

On September 28, the Supreme Court issued a unanimous ruling that nullified an Appeal Court judgment concerning the validity of political party membership and the processes for candidate emergence for the 2027 general election. This ruling has created significant tension among political parties and candidates, particularly those who may be adversely affected.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which won the suit, indicated it would act in strict compliance with the Supreme Court's decision after reviewing the Certified True Copy of the ruling. The Appeal Court had previously declared sections 77(5), 77(6), 77(7), and 84(2) of the Electoral Act 2026 unconstitutional, stating that the National Assembly could not impose additional restrictions on political parties' management of their affairs.

However, the Supreme Court, led by Justice Adamu Jauro, restored INEC's authority, affirming that the sections in question are not in conflict with the Constitution. The ruling reinstates the requirement that only members listed in a party's submitted membership register can participate in primaries.